Whitman, Walt

8vo (7 1/8 x 4 5/8 in.; 181 x 118 mm). Frontispiece of stiff paper with mounted photograph of Whitman with a paper butterfly, single leaf with Hollyer engraving of Whitman on verso inserted after p. 28, single leaves of coated paper with photograph of Whitman with hat printed on recto, head and shoulders photograph of Whitman by Gutekunst printed on recto, W. J. Linton engraving of G. C. Potter photograph of Whitman printed on recto, and photograph of Whitman seated with cane printed on verso inserted after pp. 132, 214, 296, 382; very light foxing on frontispiece and title, light dampstaining at lower right corner of three of the portraits. Original pebble-grained black leather over flexible boardsupper cover lettered in gilt and with facsimile of Whitman's signature in gilt, edges gilt, marbled endpapers; spine rubbed and spine ends chipped, some wear at corners, inner hinge starting with front free endpaper partially detached and with small chip at lower right corner, lower free endpaper partially detached and with some chipping at edges. Half black morocco gilt clamshell case.

Bliss Carman (presentation inscription by Horace Traubel)

Feinberg 326; Myerson A2.7.n in binding C; Wells & Goldsmith pp. 32–33 

Condition as described in catalogue.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

One of 300 copies, signed by Whitman on the title. The poet brought out this edition to celebrate his seventieth year. A statement, dated 31 May 1889 and printed on the title-page, reads, "To-day, finishing my 70th year, the fancy comes for celebrating it by a special, complete, final utterance, in one handy volume, of L. of G., with their Annex, and Backward Glance — and for stamping and sprinkling all with portraits and facial photos such as they actually were, taken from life, different stages. Doubtless, anyhow, the volume is more a person than a book. And for testimony to all, (and good measure,) I here with pen and ink append my name: [signature in ink]."

The volume is inscribed on an initial blank by Horace Traubel to Canadian poet Bliss Carman.